Objective: To evaluate the long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes in neonatal and pediatric patients supported by ECMO and to identify the role of post-ECMO MRI in predicting neuro-developmental outcomes

Method: Twenty-nine patients were evaluated using the Ages and Stages Questionnaire, Third Edition (ASQ-3) screening tool. Thirteen were evaluated during their visit at the neuro-developmental clinic and 16 were interviewed via phone.

Results: In our cohort of 29 patients 34%  had developmental delay with 80% of these being newborn.  67% of patients with developmental delay had moderate to severe MRI abnormalities as compared to only 18% with no developmental deficits (p-value 0.03).

Conclusion: Younger the age at the time of placement on ECMO, higher the chances of impaired neurodevelopmental outcome.  Long-term follow up of patients who have survived ECMO, with standardized neuro-psychological testing and post ECMO imaging, should become the standard of care to improve long-term outcomes.